Liu Qing's mother lives in Wang Li's house for health reasons. Wang Li has always taken care of the elderly, although it is not an easy task.
One day, Liu Qing went back to her parents' house for dinner. She was expecting a table of hearty meat dishes, but found that the table was full of vegetarian dishes, without a bit of oil. Dissatisfied, she asked Wang Li if she took care of her mother in this way. Wang Li calmly explained that doctors advised their mothers to eat less meat and greasy foods to control their blood lipid levels.
Liu Qing does not accept this explanation. She accused Wang Li of being pretending and demanded that Wang Li pay more for living expenses to take care of their mother. Wang Li didn't argue, just turned around and left. Liu Qing angrily flipped the table and loudly accused Wang Li of abusing her mother.
1. Causes of dyslipidemia
Genetic factors
High blood lipids are sometimes related to genetic factors. Those with a family history of high cholesterol or hyperlipidemia are more likely to develop dyslipidemia. This is because genetic factors can make it easier for the body to produce cholesterol, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), which is one of the main causes of atherosclerosis.
Poor lifestyle
Lifestyle has an important impact on blood lipid levels. Long-term unhealthy lifestyles, including a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet, as well as poor habits such as lack of exercise, smoking, and alcoholism, can lead to dyslipidemia. These factors can increase cholesterol synthesis and absorption in the body.
High-carbohydrate diet
Some people may try to improve their blood lipid levels by reducing their intake of meat, but at the same time increase their intake of carbohydrates, especially refined carbohydrates such as white bread, white rice, and sugar. The following foods can cause a rise in blood sugar, which can trigger the release of insulin in the body, promote fat storage, and increase blood lipid levels.
Second, the ** of blood lipids
Hepatic synthesis
Even if we don't consume any cholesterol from food, the liver actively synthesizes enough cholesterol to meet our body's various needs. This is because cholesterol plays a vital role in several physiological processes, including the building of cell membranes, the synthesis of hormones, and the digestion of fats. Cholesterol synthesis in the liver is a self-regulated process that ensures that our bodies always have access to this critical substance without having to rely on external intake. This self-regulation mechanism ensures that our physiological functions run smoothly.
Dietary intake
Although eating less meat and fat can reduce exogenous cholesterol intake, there are still many foods that contain cholesterol and fat, such as dairy, eggs, and nuts. Excessive intake of these foods can also lead to dyslipidemia. To effectively control blood lipids, in addition to reducing the intake of meat and fat, you also need to pay attention to the type and amount of food.
Fat cell release
Fat cells are where fat is stored in the body, and they can release fat into the bloodstream for the body's energy. When our energy intake exceeds our energy expenditure, fat cells release more fat, which leads to increased blood lipid levels. In addition to dietary factors, weight control and maintaining appropriate levels of exercise are also essential for maintaining healthy blood lipid levels.
3. Strategies for managing dyslipidemia
Dietary changes
Increase your intake of vegetables and fruits: Vegetables and fruits are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which play a positive role in regulating blood lipid levels, reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) while raising levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Darker vegetables and berries, in particular, have excellent antioxidant properties that help support cardiovascular health.
Increase your intake of whole grains and legumes: Whole grain foods such as oats, whole wheat bread, and brown rice are high in fiber, which can help lower LDL-C levels. Legumes such as beans, tofu and soy protein are also high-quality proteins** that can replace some meats.
Increase fish intake: Fish such as salmon, cod, and salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower triglyceride levels, reduce inflammation in the blood, and contribute to heart health. It is recommended to consume fish at least twice a week.
Reduce consumption of refined carbohydrates and processed foods: Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, sugar, and candy can cause blood sugar fluctuations, which can affect blood lipid levels. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats and additives and should be avoided as much as possible.
Exercise
Increased physical activity can raise levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), a good type of cholesterol that helps remove cholesterol from your blood vessels. Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming, can help maintain healthy blood lipid levels. In addition, strength training also helps to increase muscle mass and improve the body's metabolic rate. These activities all contribute to the maintenance of good blood lipid levels and overall health.
Medications**
In this case, your doctor may consider medications**, such as statins, to help lower cholesterol levels. Medications** are usually considered when other measures have not responded or if there is severe dyslipidemia. The doctor will determine the most appropriate method based on the individual situation and monitor the effect of the medication to ensure that the blood lipid level is effectively controlled.
Blood lipids come from both endogenous and exogenous aspects, and eating less meat and less oil is one of the effective ways to control exogenous blood lipids. However, everyone's situation is different, so there are many factors that need to be considered when dealing with hyperlipidemia. Ultimately, working closely with your doctor is key to ensuring that your blood lipid levels are within a healthy range.